Uisce Éireann has received planning permission to carry out a major overhaul of the Portlaoise Wastewater Treatment Plant, an investment intended to future‑proof services in the Midlands town, enable sustainable growth and safeguard the local environment.

Described as a once‑in‑a‑generation scheme, the project will lift treatment capacity to a population equivalent of more than 45,000, meeting demand for at least the next 25 years. It will also raise treatment standards, improve water quality in the River Triogue and ensure compliance with national and European wastewater regulations.

James Browne, T.D., Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, said: "This investment to upgrade the Portlaoise Wastewater Treatment Plant will provide the critical infrastructure needed to support housing delivery and sustainable development in the area. Ensuring communities have the wastewater capacity required to grow is central to this Government's priorities, and this project will play an important role in meeting future demand while safeguarding the River Triogue and the wider environment."

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Paul Fallon, Portfolio Manager at Uisce Éireann, said: "We're delighted to forge ahead with this much-needed project for the community. This significant upgrade to the Portlaoise Wastewater Treatment Plant is about future-proofing essential wastewater infrastructure so the town can continue to grow and thrive in a sustainable way. Once complete, the upgraded plant will provide the additional treatment capacity required to support future development, while ensuring compliance with environmental standards."

With approval now in place, the utility will move into the next phase, progressing detailed design work and preparing for construction.

Sustainability features are central to the plans, including renewable power from an on‑site solar array and a dedicated biodiversity enhancement area to support nature and cut the plant's environmental footprint.

The upgrade will expand and modernise the existing facilities, adding storage and extra treatment capacity to accommodate future growth. Together, the works aim to deliver a more resilient, efficient and environmentally responsible plant for Portlaoise.

Uisce Éireann delivers public drinking water and wastewater services across Ireland and says it is committed to continually upgrading critical infrastructure to support sustainable development, provide safe drinking water and enhance the environment.